Victor Osimhen will miss Nigeria’s crucial World Cup qualifier against South Africa after sustaining an injury in the Super Eagles’ 1-0 win over Rwanda in Uyo on Saturday, September 6.
Team officials confirmed on Sunday, September 7, that the 26-year-old striker will not travel with the squad to Bloemfontein after suffering a shin injury. Osimhen, who started the match at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, was forced off in the first half despite initially attempting to continue following treatment from the medical staff. He was replaced by Cyril Dessers in the 35th minute.
Promise Efoghe, the team’s media officer, disclosed that the Napoli forward woke up in discomfort and would be unavailable for Tuesday’s decisive encounter. “Team doctor confirmed Victor Osimhen’s injury is a bruise on his shin. He woke up this morning with discomfort and will not be traveling with the squad to South Africa for Tuesday’s game,” Efoghe said.
Nigeria’s victory over Rwanda was their first in five matches in Group A of the qualifiers, lifting them to third place on ten points after seven games. South Africa currently top the group with 16 points, setting the stage for a decisive showdown on September 9 with three matches remaining.
